mineral
Cubic Zirconia (as used in jewelry setting)
Zirconium dioxide (ZrO2)
Hardness: 8-8.5 Mohs scale. Color: Colorless (clear). Luster: Adamantine. Crystal system: Cubic. Specific Gravity: 5.6-6.0.
- Hardness
- 8-8
- Color
- Colorless (clear)
- Luster
- Adamantine
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Physical properties
Hardness: 8-8.5 Mohs scale. Color: Colorless (clear). Luster: Adamantine. Crystal system: Cubic. Specific Gravity: 5.6-6.0.
Formation & geological history
Primarily synthetic lab-grown (though Baddeleyite is a rare natural mineral form). Modern synthetic production began in the 1970s using the 'cold crucible' method.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a diamond simulant in cost-effective jewelry, and in industrial applications requiring high thermal and chemical resistance.
Geological facts
Cubic Zirconia is significantly heavier than diamond; a CZ stone of the same size as a diamond will weigh about 1.7 times more. It has higher dispersion (fire) than diamond but lower thermal conductivity.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its weight (dense), lack of inclusions under magnification, and its tendency to become dull or scratched over time unlike a natural diamond. The metal setting and stamp (e.g., '925' or 'CZ') are often giveaways.
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